Daniel Craig: Brosnan Urged Me to Take Bond Role

Before Casino Royale went into production a few years back, it was announced that Pierce Brosnan would be ending his run as superspy James Bond and would be replaced by up-and-coming hunk Daniel Craig. And while there are several reports of Brosnan being none-too-happy about no longer filling 007’s shoes, Craig says that he received Pierce’s blessing before he even got the role.

In an interview set to air Tuesday night on Extra, the Quantum of Solace star recalls how it all went down. “I sat next to him [Brosnan] at the BAFTAs… after dinner, after having enough to drink, I just went over [to him] and said, ‘Look, it’s not on the cards. It might be on the cards. If it were to be on the cards, what should I do?’ And he said, ‘Go for it. Just go for it. You’ve got to have a go at this.’”

Even though he got the thumbs-up from Brosnan, Craig says his favorite Bond is from an earlier generation. “Sean Connery without a doubt. Nothing against Pierce and everyone else.”

For the entire interview, be sure to check out Extra on Tuesday night!